Earthquake Cake(Also Known As California Earthquake Cake)
Earthquake Cake, also known as California Earthquake Cake, is a rich, indulgent dessert featuring layers of chocolate, coconut, and pecans, topped with a creamy cheese frosting. Its moist texture and delightful flavors make it perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. A true crowd-pleaser for those who love decadent sweets.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Spray a 13 x 9-inch pan with cooking spray.
- Layer the pan with coconut and chopped pecans.
- Mix the cake mix according to the instructions on the box.
- In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, oleo, vanilla, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Pour the cake mixture over the coconut and pecans in the pan.
- Pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter.
- Bake at 350°F for approximately 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a higher quality German chocolate cake mix or homemade cake batter. If you don't have oleo, unsalted butter is a great substitute. You can also swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer. To enhance the coconut flavor, try toasting the coconut before adding it to the pan. This will add a lovely crunch and depth to the Earthquake Cake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Earthquake Cake warm or at room temperature, and it pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence. For a refreshing contrast, consider serving it alongside fresh berries or a light fruit salad. It’s also a delightful dessert to bring to potlucks or gatherings, just like Congo Squares.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through, which will bring back the cake's moist texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Earthquake Cake(Also Known As California Earthquake Cake) contains roughly 566 calories, with 4g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with different cake mixes, such as chocolate or vanilla, to give the Earthquake Cake a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Earthquake Cake gluten-free, use a gluten-free German chocolate cake mix. Ensure that all other ingredients, especially the powdered sugar, are also labeled gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a similar taste without gluten.
Is it possible to make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Earthquake Cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. Just be sure to let it cool completely before covering to avoid condensation, which can make the cake soggy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).